Achern between Illenau and cherry blossoms
Accommodation in Achern
Achern offers various ways to shape your stay: the history of Illenau, historic architecture and a longer route through vineyards and fruit-growing country. When comparing hotels in Achern, these interests can help you choose: would you mainly like to explore cultural history or set aside time for a scenic route? The following stops bring the differences into focus.
Illenau: founding, architecture and museum
Illenau was founded in 1842 as a Baden institution for the treatment and care of people with mental illness, and opened that same year under its first director, Dr. Christian Roller. The ensemble of buildings erected by building inspector Hans Voß is considered an important example of Neoclassical architecture. Illenau’s original purpose and the architecture of the ensemble are both central: one describes why it was founded, while the other places the buildings in their architectural context.
The Illenau Arcade Museum presents Illenau’s history, from its beginnings and development through its tragic end and transition to its new beginning. A public guided tour is usually held on the last Friday of the month. It takes visitors through the museum, around the grounds or through the Illenau cemetery; registration through the tourist information office is required. Check the date and registration details before your visit.
Klauskirchl and historic town tour
Klauskirchl, the Chapel of St. Nicholas, is considered Achern’s oldest building and a landmark of the town. Its building history spans different periods: the oldest parts date from the 9th century, while the chapel took on its present form in the second half of the 15th century. It is Gothic. The early structural elements and the later form therefore belong to different periods.
Groups can take a historic walking tour of Achern’s town centre to the “Achern Milestones.” Stops include Klauskirchl, the Leopold Monument and the Brecht House. This tour is designed for groups and connects several historic sites in the town centre in a themed walk.
The Three Cherries Trail and the Reithalle
The Three Cherries Trail is a 21-kilometre circular route around Achern. It passes through vineyards and Baden’s fruit-growing region. The trail is especially impressive during cherry blossom season; along the way, there are delightful views across the Acher Valley, the Rhine Plain and as far as Alsace. This makes the route a scenic highlight alongside the historic sites in town. Cherry blossom is a seasonal feature to take into account when planning your visit.
Events are regularly held at the Reithalle in Achern. The complex includes a market hall, a café, a florist, a package-free shop, a bookshop, exhibition space, apartments and offices. Its varied uses range from shops and event spaces to residential and office premises. Individual shops and programmes may change; check the current programme for specific event dates.
Beach volleyball is available at the swimming pool on BadstraĂźe in Achern. If you would like to include this activity in your plans, check that it is currently available before visiting.
The wider regional setting: Ortenaukreis
Achern is part of the wider Ortenaukreis destination, which lies between the Rhine and the Black Forest. Ortenaukreis has 23 nature reserves covering a total area of around 3,110 hectares. They extend from the Rhine Plain to the higher elevations of the Black Forest. This regional range of landscapes adds a broader geographical context to Achern’s local attractions.
Discover more destinations: Rheinau, Renchen, Neuried, Ohlsbach, Steinach, Haslach im Kinzigtal, Sasbach, Berghaupten
Go to the main travel overview: Ortenaukreis.
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